Best things to do in Praia da Pipa

Snuggled at the foot of a large heart-shaped cliff, Amor Beach has an unspoiled beauty, despite being a popular surfing destination since the 1970s. The waves, considered some of the best on the entire northeast coast, attract kite- and windsurfers as well. At one end of the beach, naturally formed pools of warm water provide a calm haven in which you can sit and relax, surrounded by small marine life. While busy, the beach doesn’t get too crowded, and you will find plenty of space to sunbathe. If you need something to read, along the beach you will find a homemade library, quite possibly the only one of its kind. Should you get hungry, the few kiosks prepare delicious, freshly grilled fish, which you can wash down with a refreshing caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail.

Popularly known as Baía dos Golfinhos--or 'Dolphin Cove'--Curral Beach can only be accessed at low tide, as it lies at the base of imposing, but beautiful, red-streaked cliffs. With warm, shallow, and inviting water, it is impossible to resist joining the dolphins in the sea. Despite the difficulty of access, locals manage to bring down chairs and parasols to rent, and drinks to buy.

The best way to experience Guarairas Beach is by boat; tours leave from the beaches of Tibau do Sul and Pipa, but renting a kayak gets you much closer to the action, or in this case, the nature. Navigating the lake’s extensive mangrove network, you will see an impressive amount of local wildlife, including many beautiful birds, fish, and, sometimes, dolphins. You will pass local fishermen hauling in their catch from the shrimp farms, and a small island with the ruins of a Dutch fort, a hint at the lake’s rich, but troubled past. As the sun sets, the once blue-grey water turns to pure gold; a truly phenomenal sight.

With 16 short trails, including Fair Maiden’s Path, Pirates’ Trail, and Firefly’s Flight, leading through Santuario Ecologico de Pipa, you can observe remarkable nature close up. Numerous birds, monkeys, and snakes are just a few species you will encounter, protected from extinction by the sanctuary, whose work is explained to you by volunteers and small exhibitions. From panoramic lookouts over Baía dos Golfinhos and Praia do Madeiro, you can view large green turtles and schools of dolphins. The experience is enhanced by the natural, unspoiled beauty of the privately owned conservation area, with lush forest, towering cliffs, and pristine, white beaches.

Lagoa de Carcara is not the easiest place to find, but once you discover its invitingly warm, crystal clear waters, you will wonder how more tourists haven't heard of this idyllic lake. Large sandy shallows are perfect for bathing, or if you fancy something a little more energetic, take to deeper waters in a swan peddle boat, kayak or on a windsurf board. When you get hungry, tuck into some fresh fish at one of several lakeside restaurants.

Rua Beija Flor, a popular urban environment and dining area, is artistically decorated with painting depicting nature and other visuals. It is located in a natural environment including the turquoise sea with docked boats, a view which you can savor as you sip your drink or snack on shrimp purchased from one of the local cafes.